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CDIA & Metro2 Access

Access additional credit reporting resources including CDIA membership and Metro 2® format specifications.

What is CDIA?​

The Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA) is the leading trade association for consumer reporting agencies and data furnishers. CDIA membership provides access to industry resources, compliance guidance, and the Metro 2® format specifications.

What is Metro 2® Format?​

Metro 2® is the standardized data reporting format used by credit bureaus to receive consumer credit information. All data furnishers must report information using this format.

Key Components​

  • Base Segment - Required for all accounts (name, address, account details)
  • J1 Segment - Employment information (optional)
  • J2 Segment - Original creditor information (required for collection accounts)
  • K Segments - Additional consumer information

Accessing Metro 2® Documentation​

Option 1: CDIA Direct Membership​

  1. Visit CDIA Website
  2. Click Membership > Apply Now
  3. Complete the membership application
  4. Pay annual membership dues
  5. Access the Member Portal for Metro 2® documentation

Option 2: Through GoFinFi​

GoFinFi members can access simplified Metro 2® guidance:

  1. Contact your GoFinFi account manager
  2. Request Metro 2® format guide
  3. Access our Metro 2® simplified documentation
  4. Use our pre-formatted workbooks (no direct Metro 2® knowledge required)

Using GoFinFi's Credit Reporting Workbooks​

Don't want to deal with Metro 2® format directly?

GoFinFi provides Excel-based workbooks that automatically generate Metro 2® formatted files:

Available Workbooks​

  1. FinFi Credit Reporting Workbook: General

    • For consumer credit accounts
    • Auto loans, personal loans, credit cards, etc.
    • Download Template

  2. FinFi Credit Reporting Workbook: Rental

How It Works​

  1. Download the appropriate workbook
  2. Fill in consumer and account information
  3. Export to Metro 2® format with one click
  4. Upload to OpenPortal for submission

Metro 2® Format Resources​

Official Resources​

GoFinFi Resources​

  • Metro 2® Quick Reference Guide (contact support)
  • Field Mapping Documentation
  • Sample Files and Templates
  • Common Error Code Reference

Understanding Key Metro 2® Fields​

Required Fields​

FieldDescriptionExample
Processing IndicatorType of action1 (Add), 2 (Modify), 3 (Delete)
Cycle IdentifierReporting frequencyM (Monthly)
Consumer Account NumberYour internal IDACC-12345
Portfolio TypeAccount type codeC (Credit Card), I (Installment)
Account TypeSpecific account18 (Secured Credit Card)
Date OpenedAccount open date20240101
Credit Limit/Original AmountLimit or loan amount5000
Balance AmountCurrent balance2500
Payment History24-month history000000000000000000000000

Common Portfolio Types​

  • C - Credit Card
  • I - Installment Loan
  • M - Mortgage
  • O - Open Account
  • R - Revolving Account

Data Quality Best Practices​

Before Submitting​

  1. Validate Data Accuracy

    • Verify consumer names and SSNs
    • Confirm account numbers are unique
    • Check date formats (YYYYMMDD)

  2. Review Payment History

    • Ensure 24-month history is complete
    • Use correct payment rating codes
    • Mark promotional or deferred periods

  3. Test Files

    • Submit test files before production
    • Review bureau feedback and errors
    • Make corrections before next cycle

Common Errors to Avoid​

  • Incomplete or missing SSN
  • Invalid account type codes
  • Incorrect date formats
  • Missing required fields
  • Inconsistent payment history

Bureau-Specific Requirements​

Equifax​

  • Requires separate credentialing
  • Supports full Metro 2® format
  • Additional fields for fraud alerts

Experian​

  • Requires Data Reporter Code
  • Supports enhanced data elements
  • Rental reporting through RentBureau

TransUnion​

  • Requires Data Furnisher ID
  • Supports full Metro 2® format
  • eOSCAR dispute platform integration

Training and Support​

GoFinFi Training Resources​

  • Webinars - Monthly Metro 2® training sessions
  • Documentation - Step-by-step format guides
  • One-on-One Support - Dedicated account manager assistance

Request Training​

Contact support@gofinfi.com to schedule:

  • Metro 2® format overview
  • Workbook training
  • Custom integration support

Compliance Considerations​

FCRA Requirements​

When reporting data, you must:

  • Report accurate and complete information
  • Investigate and respond to disputes within 30 days
  • Update or delete inaccurate information
  • Comply with maximum reporting periods

Record Retention​

Maintain records for:

  • All data submitted to bureaus (5 years minimum)
  • Dispute investigations and resolutions
  • Consumer consent and authorization forms

Next Steps​

  1. Determine your reporting approach:
    • Simple: Use GoFinFi workbooks (recommended)
    • Advanced: Direct Metro 2® formatting
  2. Download appropriate workbook or request Metro 2® docs
  3. Set up file share integration
  4. Submit test data for validation

Additional Resources​

Support​

Questions about Metro 2® or CDIA access?